Европа

Intermodal operator METRANS continues to expand its network into Southeastern Europe by acquiring a 50% stake in the AFLUENT Arad South terminal in western Romania. This is the company’s first intermodal terminal in the country and an important step in strengthening METRANS’s position in the region. The terminal occupies an area of ​​approximately 3.5 hectares, expandable to 82 hectares, and provides simultaneous storage capacity of up to 750 TEUs.

Hamburger Hafen und Logistik AG recorded growth in key performance indicators for the 2025 financial year, despite economic challenges, geopolitical tensions, and uncertainty in US trade policy. Group revenue increased by 9.9% to €1.76 billion, while operating profit (EBIT) increased by 19.5% to €160.5 million. Container throughput reached 6.295 million TEU (up 5.4%), while intermodal throughput reached 1.982 million TEU (up 10.9%). Net profit, however, decreased to €9.8 million due to one-time tax effects.

FS Logistix has started new intermodal rail services linking the ports of Genoa and Vado Ligure with Verona Quadrante Europa and Milan Segrate.

From April 1, 2026, mandatory speed limits will be introduced for all shipping in the waters around the Erasmusbrug Bridge in Rotterdam. In a special zone from the Waterbus pier at Willemskade to the radar tower at Boompjes, the maximum speed will be limited to 20 km/h. The new regulations affect one of the busiest and most challenging navigation areas in the Netherlands, where river vessels, water taxis, Waterbuses, small boats, and RHIB speedboats all navigate.

DB Cargo announced the launch of one of the largest transformations in its history. The reorganization concept received a positive assessment from independent experts and was approved by the European Commission and the Management Board and Supervisory Board of Deutsche Bahn AG in March. This decision lays the foundation for comprehensive changes aimed at achieving economic sustainability and strengthening the company’s position in the European rail freight market.

Hamburg-based global logistics company Fr. Meyer’s Sohn (FMS) announced the acquisition of Oslo-based Norwegian logistics provider Front Shipping AS. The deal is part of FMS’s strategy to expand in the Nordic countries and strengthen its project logistics capabilities. Following the acquisition of the Swedish company in 2024, the integration of Front Shipping is the next step in creating a unified platform in Scandinavia with offices in Sweden and Norway.

Global logistics company DSV is reporting significant disruptions to cargo movements in the Middle East, but continues to support operations using its extensive network and partners to find alternative routes. Air freight is limited: international airlines have suspended flights to Israel, national carriers are operating partially, and the redistribution of cargo through China and Hong Kong is increasing pressure on key trade corridors and driving up tariffs. Sea freight is also affected: most shipping lines have suspended services to the Persian Gulf due to the cancellation of war risk insurance, and cargo is being rerouted to safe ports for onward delivery by land or rail.

The HHLA TK Estonia terminal in Muuga will be the first in Europe to use fully battery-powered Rubber-Tired Gantry (RTG) cranes, capable of operating an entire shift on battery power alone. The cranes, delivered by Konecranes, will arrive at the end of the year and will form part of the terminal’s strategy for sustainable development, emission reduction, and modernization of its container yard infrastructure.

The digital process for processing imported containers through the German Ports platform is entering its final stage, with transport companies and truck drivers now connected to the system. A valid digital permit is now required to receive a container, allowing terminals to verify carrier data in real time upon entry. This creates a unified digital chain from container arrival to release at German North Sea ports.

UIRR has called on EU institutions to press ahead with the modernisation of the Combined Transport Directive, presenting combined transport as a practical response to Europe’s energy challenges and continued dependence on imported oil.